SACRAMENTO—Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount) released the following statement on the release of the May budget revision:

“The Assembly believes we must protect against future economic downturns so we can avoid potential cuts to schools and other critical programs, as well as tax increases on middle class Californians.

“The Governor’s budget revision makes clear that the rainy day fund first proposed by Assembly Democrats is doing its job and absorbing the ups and downs of revenue forecasts. That means we are able to make necessary improvements to the budget without impacting existing services or using one-time money for ongoing programs.

“In the coming weeks, the Assembly will work to craft a responsible budget that protects reserves and reflects the values of the people of California: fighting poverty, improving early education, expanding access to higher education, and making progress to increase affordable housing.”

Assemblyman Phil Ting (D-San Francisco), chair of the Assembly Budget Committee, released the following statement:

“California continues to have a responsible budget for a stronger middle class. As we continue to save money in our rainy day fund, education investments remain our top priority. Additionally, more Californians will move into the middle class with the raising of the minimum wage across the state.

“As we finalize our budget over the next month, we need to develop long term funding strategies for child care, pre-school, and higher education. Infrastructure and housing need investment to keep our people and economy moving forward. We must also continue to lead the fight against climate change.

“I look forward to working with Governor Brown and my colleagues in the Legislature to enact another on-time budget that broadens opportunity while responsibly saving for the future.”